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Pasta producer Barilla has expanded its chickpea pasta offering with the launch of Chickpea Orzo. Barilla’s chickpea pasta range is made with only one ingredient – chickpeas – and includes 19g of plant-based protein per 3.5oz serving. Orzo, a rice-shaped pasta, can be used in both hot and cold applications, from salads and soups to pastas and risottos. Jean-Pierre Comte, president of Barilla Americas, said: "As a leader in pasta, we understand that consumers are always looking for versatile pasta cuts and shapes that can be featured in a variety of unique dishes”. He continued: “Chickpea Orzo is one that can be used outside of traditional pasta recipes, and we're excited to see what our fans can create. The options are truly endless”. Chickpea Orzo joins Barilla’s line of chickpea and red lentil pasta, including: Chickpea Penne – which launched in May last year, Chickpea Spaghetti, Chickpea Rotini, Red Lentil Penne, Red Lentil Spaghetti and Red Lentil Rotini. The launch follows Barilla’s acquisition of natural food brand Back to Nature from B&G Foods in December. In October, the pasta giant announced that Claudio Colzani will be stepping down as CEO – effective April 2023 – and will be succeeded by Gianluca Di Tondo, Barilla’s current CMO. The additive-free Chickpea Orzo will be available to purchase in major US retailers from April for an RRP of $3.49.